Newport, ME – Rev. Carl Reginald Engstrom, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, minister, and man of unwavering faith, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on March 19th, 2026. Born in Bangor, Maine, on December 14th, 1927, Carl was raised in Carmel and Dover-Foxcroft, where he developed the strong values and deep faith that would guide him throughout his life.
Carl graduated from Zion Bible Institute in 1948 and went on to become an ordained minister through the Assemblies of God. In 1952, he married the love of his life, Betty, beginning a beautiful partnership that lasted until her passing in 1999. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.
Carl dedicated his life to ministry, pastoring congregations in Pennsylvania, where he also hosted a radio broadcast titled "The Haven of Rest," and also later pastored in Michigan. In 1989, Carl and Betty returned to Maine, where he continued his calling. He faithfully served as pastor of Jubilee Family Worship Center in Newport for 16 years, retiring at the age of 82. Even in retirement, his faith remained a keystone of his life as a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church in Exeter.
A gifted musician, Carl loved singing and playing the piano and had the remarkable ability to play nearly any song by ear. Above all, he was a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. His legacy is one of faith, love, and unwavering dedication to both his family and his calling.
Carl is survived by his children, Carlene Lasselle and her husband Kevin, Carlton Engstrom and his wife Geri, Alvin Engstrom, and son-in-law Rick and his wife Sandi; his grandchildren, Rachel Dostie and her husband Serge, Rich Beaudrie and his wife Bethany, Nicholas Beaudrie and his wife Megan, Sara Lynch and her husband Dan, and Carley Engstrom and her fiancé Zach, and Riley Engstrom; his great-grandchildren, Noah, Jillian, Brianna, Kyle, RJ, Jonah, Brynnley, and Elijah; and his great-great-grandchildren, Jaydon and Iyla; and step grandchildren Brandon Lasselle, Alisha Lasselle and Julie Lasselle. He also leaves behind many many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Alvin and Hattie Engstrom; his beloved wife, Betty; his daughters, Alta Engstrom and Sally Beaudrie; his grandson, Michael Howe; and his siblings, Helen, Eva, Alvin, Leon, Archie, Earl, Floyd, Clyde, Carlton, Ralph, and Maynard.
Carl's life was a testament to faith, love, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched through his ministry.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Cornerstone Baptist Church in Exeter in memory of Carl and his deep rooted faith.
A Celebration of Life Church Service will be held April 11th, 2026 at 11am at Cornerstone Baptist Church, 1195 Stetson Rd, Exeter, ME, officiated by Pastor Stan Griffin.